Sabaj has stamped himself as a genuine autumn prospect after securing his first stakes victory for the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr team in the Listed Cranbourne Cup.

The gelding eased early concerns about gaining a run — and a tricky draw — when Beau Mertens produced a faultless ride, guiding the $3.30 favourite to a determined three-quarter-length win over Enxuto ($6.50), with Holyman ($16) close behind.

Sabaj continues a strong recent record in the race for Price and Kent Jnr, following last year’s victory with Globe, who went on to win the Group 1 Might And Power.

Price is already eyeing a major autumn target.

“I have to do my sums, but I can imagine him with a light weight and on a big track… the Doncaster Mile is certainly a race you’d put a circle around,” Price said.

The stable is still learning about the lightly raced former South Australian galloper, but Price believes he has significant upside heading into the autumn.

Mertens, who completed his apprenticeship at Cranbourne, said the win carried special meaning:

“It’s unbelievable… Mick Price has been a big part of my career… it’s fantastic to deliver in such a fantastic race.”